National unity requires solidarity

The Jakarta Post | National | Sat, November 10 2012, 9:46 AM

Paper Edition | Page: 4

Social solidarity, patriotism and heroism form the basis of national integration, Social Affairs Minister Salim Segaf Al Jufri said in Jakarta on Friday.

“The spirit of heroism and social solidarity should be cultivated in every community to bring about social stability and to create a good environment,” said Salim in his opening remarks on National Solidarity Day.

According to him, a positive environment is necessary for national integration.

In addition, the minister mentioned that for Indonesia to prosper, the country should not discriminate against any ethnic group since the diversity of cultures and traditions form a powerful cohesive force.

“If we love our country, we can also love our neighbors regardless of any differences. If we love this country, we can also love the poor, wherever they are,” he was quoted by Antara news agency.

Salim noted that social solidarity, heroism and patriotism are key motivators of social welfare.

“We face a number of social problems and we need to overcome them by identifying the source of social welfare,” the social affairs minister added.